"This is not how I expected to leave this couch after 15 years, but I am so grateful," Curry tearfully told viewers.

NBC announced on Thursday that Curry will continue on the network as an anchor at large and national and international correspondent for Today.

Today executive producer Jim Bell paid tribute to Curry, saying: "I know of only one journalist who in just a matter of years has traveled to Sudan six times, broken exclusive world news with top world leaders, and broadcast live from both the South Pole and Mount Kilimanjaro.

"Ann has quite literally reached amazing heights in her career, and with this new role, she will continue her intrepid climb bringing viewers her signature brand of humanitarian reporting."

Lauer also recognized Curry's contributions to Today on Thursday (June 28)'s edition of the morning show, saying that she has "the biggest heart in the business".

"You put that on display every single day for almost 20 years. Most importantly, you've made us better, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts," Lauer told Curry.

Curry joined Today in March 1997 as the show's news anchor and later replaced Meredith Vieira as co-anchor in 2011.